When choosing sunglasses, which feature is most crucial for UV protection?

The most crucial feature for UV protection in sunglasses is the UV coating. This coating is specifically designed to block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which can cause serious damage to the eyes and increase the risk of conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.

While polarized lenses can reduce glare and enhance vision in bright conditions, they do not necessarily provide UV protection unless they are also treated with a UV-blocking coating. Lens color and darkness might affect visual comfort and style preferences, but they do not inherently determine the level of UV protection offered. It is essential to select sunglasses that are explicitly labeled as providing 100% UV protection, which is usually achieved through a UV coating. Therefore, ensuring that the lenses have this protective layer is key to safeguarding your eyes from harmful radiation.